With technology and globalization, my kid is becoming more attuned to tech faster than me

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Be Involved
by: Chante

Hello Krystina!

As natural parents, we strive to make the bond of relationship with our children the strongest we can. We try to change those practices that will hurt or destroy that bond.

In the case of technology, boundaries must be in place or you'll likely never see your child again! =)

No, I'm just kidding, but the reality is that the lure of technology often makes the most important things, like just sitting together and talking, seem uninteresting.

You sound like you're doing good so far. Just remember that you have to teach your child that the computer is a tool. It's very easy for a child to get too wrapped up in new things. We as parents provide the balance and self-discipline our children lack. So, continue with your parental limits and monitoring. The key is to stay involved in whatever your child finds to do and gently lead them down the path you would have them go.

Here are the specific answers to your questions:

Q: What should I be doing to be a more progressive parent?
A: Get involved in what your child is interested in. If they like downloading music, get to know the artists they like. Maybe you could ask your child to show you how to download music. Another idea would be to buy an mp3 player where you and your child can share music.

Q: Should I try to take the computer privileges away?
A: Computers aren't all bad. We wouldn't be talking with each other from halfway around the world without them!

In the case of your young child, taking away the computer isn't necessary as long as you make sure there are certain parental locks set in place that will keep your child away from things they shouldn't be seeing online.

In our home, we use the computer for educational purposes mostly so they use it quite often. In your case, you could limit the time your child is online. Once you develop a computer time schedule, you shouldn't feel threatened by your child's use of it.

Q: Should I sit beside her and just watch where she goes?
A: If your schedule can fit in time to sit with your child while they are online, then I'd recommend doing that. Make it a time of focusing on your child's new computer skills. Let your child know you are proud of her/him for learning all that they know how to do. If you can't fit in time to sit with your child at the computer, just make sure you are close enough to be able to get a sense of what is going on. A child that young shouldn't be left unsupervised at the computer on a regular basis.

Q: What about time constraints?
A: For a young child a couple of hours should be enough, especially if your child is just using the computer for entertainment reasons.

Children are very creative. Once computer time is over, I'm sure your child will be able to find other ways to entertain themselves. If not, you can lead them in some productive ways to spend their time.

Keep in mind that a child's favorite activity is spending quality time alone with their parents.

With technology and globalization, my kid is becoming more attuned to tech faster than me

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With technology and globalization, my kid is becoming more attuned to tech faster than me

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